($983) Cost to Move From Montgomery, AL to Columbia, SC

1. Coleman Worldwide Moving: 4.48 out of 5 stars
2. C & R Movers, LLC: 4.36 out of 5 stars
3. McCorquodale Transfer: 4.36 out of 5 stars
4. Motivated Movers, Inc.: 4.36 out of 5 stars
5. Admiral Movers: 4.28 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Montgomery to Columbia

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Columbia from Montgomery, you can expect prices to land between $983 and $3,278. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $1,711 to $4,750 for the trip from Montgomery to Columbia. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $2,772 and $6,557.

Cost of moving containers from Montgomery to Columbia

Moving containers from Montgomery to Columbia will cost you $629 to $1,431 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,084 to $2,154. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,523 to $2,660. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of Alabama.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Montgomery to Columbia

Renting a moving truck from Montgomery to Columbia typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $326 and $596 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $365 to $700. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $426 to $863.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to Columbia? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 21% higher than in Montgomery, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Columbia are about 57% higher than those in Montgomery.
• Exciting update: you’ll see an average income that’s about 29% higher in Columbia compared to Montgomery, which might allow for more savings or investments.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Columbia, as living costs for a single person are 18% higher than in Montgomery. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you’re moving your family to Columbia, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 20% higher than in Montgomery.
• The unemployment rate in Columbia is about 10% lower than in Montgomery. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
• Sales taxes are 20% less in Columbia relative to Montgomery. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Income taxes in South Carolina are 40% above those in Alabama. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.

• Columbia’s population is about 32% less than Montgomery.
• Columbia’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is higher than Montgomery’s score of 2.
• Columbia is more walkable than Montgomery with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Montgomery’s 26 out of 100.
• With a score of 35 out of 100, Columbia is more bike-friendly than Montgomery, which has a score of 33 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Columbia’s crime rate is lower than Montgomery with a score of 3.0 compared to Montgomery’s 65.25. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Montgomery neighborhoods are safer than 65.25%.
• Columbia is considered to be safer than Montgomery with a safety index of 48.39 vs Montgomery’s 34.75.
• Air quality in Columbia is Good, and in Montgomery it’s Moderate.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: South Carolina’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: South Carolina does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Columbia. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers’ insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• Cayce
• Seven Oaks
• Forest Acres
• Irmo
• Lexington
• West Columbia
• St. Andrews
• Woodfield

Best neighborhoods for families

• Irmo
• Forest Acres
• Lexington
• Blythewood
• Seven Oaks
• Chapin
• Cayce
• Oak Grove

Things to do in Columbia

After settling into your new South Carolina home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Columbia has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Columbia features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and EdVenture Children’s Museum.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League)South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC)Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.